Recognizing Women's Worth: The Human Rights Argument for Ending Prostitution in India

Abstract

In Indian Feminisms: Law, Patriarchies and Violence in India, Geetanjali Gangoli recounts how the Indian feminist movement, identifiable for its uniquely Indian concepts of womanhood and equal rights, has been effective in promoting equality for women. Gangoli attributes this success to the fact that Indian feminists have influenced legislation and dialogue within the country, while also recognizing the reality of intense divides among castes and religions. This book review examines the vague nature of Indian law in regard to prostitution, a topic that has been the source of extensive feminist debate. India should fully outlaw the practice of prostitution in order to protect the fundamental human rights of women. This ban must phase out prostitution and its related activities by providing education and commensurable profit-earning alternatives to women.